Abstract [en]

Background: Palliative home care is becoming increasingly common in Sweden. Close relatives' participation is often a prerequisite for this care to be feasible. For close relatives to be able to provide palliative care for the patient, it is important that the nurse provides support and information. Maintaining vitality and the rhythm in life is important for maintaining health. Purpose: The purpose of the study was to describe the close relatives experiences of participating in palliative care perform at home. Method: A qualitative literature review was conducted to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences described by close relatives. 12 articles were selected and the data collected was then analyzed in three steps. Outcome: The outcome described close relatives experiences of the changes in everyday life and the home environment, that care entailed a major responsibility and their own needs were set aside. There are also experiences of control verses the lack of control and the meaningfulness that can be experienced by caring. Conclusion: The importance of support and information as well as the importance of being involved and being in control of the situation was highlighted here.